West Ham United now expected to sign Willy Gnonto from Leeds United before transfer deadline, ‘Case open and still moving’
Leeds United are expecting to sell Wilfried Gnonto to West Ham United before the end of the transfer window this month, according to Sacha Tavolieri.
Writing on his personal Twitter account (18 January), the reliable journalist reports that the Whites are expecting a sale of Gnonto with the Hammers seen as the most likely destination.
West Ham have been linked with a move for the Italy international to bolster their forward options with Michail Antonio, Danny Ings, Said Benrahma and Maxwel Cornet all unlikely to be at the club beyond the summer, while Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta are suffering with injuries.
“And now.. Leeds United’s also pushing!” he wrote.
“Leeds United expecting a (likely) sale of Wilfried Gnonto to West Ham United before the end of the window, pointed out the name of.. Manuel Benson as a priority target as a replacement.
“Case open and still moving until the end for the Belgian winger of Burnley.
“Wait and see.”
Wow
Last season when Leeds were struggling in the Premier League, Gnonto was their bright spark and it was a shock when the summer window closed and he was still there.
Described as “phenomenal” previously, Gnonto has an electric style that sees him regularly beat his opposing full-back with skill, has a great eye for a pass and is a genuine goal threat too.
This season he has found himself behind Crysencio Summerville and Daniel James at Elland Road in the pecking order, but that’s because their form has been so good rather than him not being good enough.
Coming to east London would definitely see him compete for a starting spot and if Benrahma is to leave with Lyon and Marseille interested in a deal, he could come in and comfortably replace him while adding more to the team.
It won’t be a cheap deal to do for sure because Leeds aren’t strapped for cash, but this would be an exciting deal for West Ham and also a smart bit of business because of his potential.
In other West Ham news, Hammers tipped to sign PL outcast on loan after source reveal.
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